Lauren Fawcett

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DUI / DWI Overview

Tips for Fighting a DUI with a Strong DUI Lawyer in New York City

If you or someone you love has been faced with a DUI, you probably feel lost, frustrated and confused. After all, a DUI is a serious charge and law enforcement takes drinking and driving charges very seriously. According to MADD, “Almost half of drivers killed in crashes had positive tests for alcohol in their systems”. In addition, law enforcement officials are specifically trained to detect individuals and special equipment like alcohol breath analyzers makes their job easier. In fact, the FBI reports that “ Over 1.2 million of all drivers arrested or convicted are repeat offenders.” With this in mind, if you or someone you care about has been picked up for a DUI in New York, you must contact a competent and experienced lawyer immediately.Not only could you face jail time, expensive fines and have your license suspended but you could receive a criminal record that carries a sharp felony conviction. Not only does this cause others to view you in a negative manner and tarnish your reputation but it can also impact your ability to obtain your dream position or take away your civil rights. The good news is that we can help. At Riser & Kenniff, PC, we have a qualified team of criminal defense attorneys that can help you get back on track. We want to protect your life and your rights. Our competent team of defense has over 30 years of combined legal training and experience and we will work tirelessly to defend you.Now, you may be thinking that you don’t need us. Well, this is far from the truth. Although many people wrongly assume that DUI is a petty offense. They are very wrong. A DUI/DWI is very serious and can ultimately destroy your life. If you are convicted of a felony, it gets even worse. There are two types of DUIs that carry a felony charge. They are a DWI with underage passengers and DWI for repeat offenders.

DWIs with underage passengers.

DWI with underage passengers may be a misdemeanor or a felony. It depends on the situation itself. If you are stopped for a DWI and it is your first offense and your passenger is over 16, you will likely be charged with a misdemeanor. But, if you have passengers who are 16 or under, you could very well be charged with a Class E felony. In this instance, if convicted, you could face up to four years in jail and may be required to pay over $5000 in fines.

Repeat DWI offenders.

If you’re a repeat offender and you are picked up for a DWI, you will not receive a second chance under New York Law. Any DWI charge that you receive within 10 years will be counted against you. In fact, if you are caught within 10 years for the same offense, you will receive an automatic felony. Plus, any additional DUI charge will result in more penalties and higher fines.

The good news is that Raiser & Kenniff PC want to help. Our experienced legal defense team knows the NYC criminal justice system and will use our knowledge and expertise to represent you in court. As former prosecutors, we are familiar with the opposition’s strategies and can help you prepare. Don’t be caught off guard. Allow us to fight on your behalf. We’re knowledgeable, aggressive and experienced. Plus, we want to help you fight a conviction.